12 Surprising Alternative Uses of Coca-Cola

A can of Coca-Cola.
Coca-Cola is not only a tasty beverage, but it also has numerous household applications. (Image: Brad Calkins via Dreamstime)

Coca-Cola is not only a tasty beverage, but it also has numerous household applications. These 12 lesser-known uses showcase its incredible versatility; the final one is particularly considerate.

1. Pest repellent

Placing a plate filled with Coca-Cola in your garden can effectively ward off insects that infest plants. These bugs are attracted to the sweet taste of Coke, and upon contact, they become immobilized.

2. Grease stain remover

Pour Coke into a heated frying pan and boil to eliminate stubborn grease stains.

3. Vintage photo ‘filter’

Achieve an old-fashioned, sepia-toned effect on modern photos by delicately brushing Coca-Cola onto the surface and allowing it to dry quickly. Be cautious not to oversaturate the photo, as it may distort the image.

The same technique can be applied to black-and-white photos to create an even more authentic vintage appearance. Additionally, maps treated this way acquire a classical and charming aesthetic.

A case of Coca-Cola
Achieve an old-fashioned, sepia-toned effect on modern photos by delicately brushing Coca-Cola onto the surface and allowing it to dry quickly. (Image: HarryStilianou via Dreamstime)

4. Hair color lightener

If you find that your hair color is too dark after dyeing, flat Coke can help lighten it.

5. Coin polisher

Soaking old coins in Coca-Cola will give them a sparkling and collectible appearance, making them suitable for display or decoration.

6. Tea stain remover

Pour Coke into a teapot and let it sit for a day to effectively remove tea stains and restore the pot’s pristine condition.

7. Toilet cleaner

Pour a can of Coca-Cola into the toilet bowl to act as a cleaning agent. The acid in the Coke will promptly dissolve stains and leave the toilet clean.

8. Barbecue sauce

Create a delicious barbecue sauce by mixing Coke and ketchup in a 1:1 ratio. Brush the sauce onto the chicken and beef before grilling for an irresistible flavor that will leave you craving more.

9. Hair conditioner

Flat Coca-Cola serves as an excellent hair conditioner. Apply it to your hair, rinse thoroughly, and enjoy revitalized and refreshed locks.

10. Rusty screw loosened

To loosen a stubborn rusty screw, wrap it with a cloth soaked in Coca-Cola. After a few hours, the screw will become much easier to turn.

11. Jewelry cleaner

Use a glass of Coca-Cola to clean your jewelry. Gently scrub the surface with a toothbrush, then rinse thoroughly. (Avoid using this on valuable items or those with gemstone settings.)

12. Stomach remedy

Flat Coca-Cola can help alleviate stomach discomfort. However, it is advised to avoid fresh carbonated Coke, as it may exacerbate the condition. (If desired, release the carbonation by adding a pinch of salt to the cola.)

Closeup of a young woman's head with the roots of her hair showing gray.
Flat Coca-Cola serves as an excellent hair conditioner. (Image: Olga Rolenko via Dreamstime)

Please note that these alternative uses of Coca-Cola should be taken cautiously and may vary in effectiveness depending on the specific circumstances.

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